The U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisories play a vital role in safeguarding their citizens, offering insights into various destinations’ security concerns, political instability, and health risks. These advisories, however, go beyond a simple “do not travel” binary, requiring nuanced interpretation and individual-level risk assessment. We look at the places the U.S. advises people not to travel to.
Ukraine
Due to the ongoing conflict in the region, Ukraine is currently experiencing an active armed conflict with significant risks, including physical harm from shelling and missile attacks that pose a high risk of injury or death. There is also limited assistance and access to essential services to support you when in the country.
Syria
The U.S. travel advisory paints a stark picture of Syria, emphasizing that no area is immune to the pervasive risks of violence, including terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and arbitrary detention. American citizens, in particular, face heightened targeting for kidnappings and detainment. United Nations Human Rights says that in the past ten years, an average of 84 civilians have been killed each day in Syria.
Russia
Russia’s Level 4 Travel Advisory paints a concerning picture, highlighting the risks posed by the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, potential harassment of U.S. citizens by officials, and unpredictable application of law enforcement. Particularly hazardous, Chechnya and Mount Elbrus are also designated Level 4, while broader risks include terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and potential wrongful detention.
Somalia
The U.S. Department of State issues a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Somalia, indicating “Do Not Travel” due to high-risk factors, including Active fighting between various armed groups and government forces across the country, pose a significant risk of injury or death and High levels of violent crime, including robbery, assault, and kidnapping, exist throughout the country.
Yemen
It is advisable not to travel to Yemen as Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and other terrorist groups remain active in Yemen, potentially targeting foreigners. There is also evidence of unexploded landmines threatening travelers in many areas.
Sudan
Sudan, Africa’s third-largest nation, remains shrouded in political turmoil following a 2021 coup and escalating conflict between rival generals vying for power. This instability prompted the U.S. to evacuate its embassy in April 2023, and the country shut down its airspace, restricting movement to humanitarian aid and evacuation flights.
South Sudan
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation born from conflict in 2011, remains plagued by pervasive risks. Crime, including armed robbery and sexual assault, is rampant, fueled by readily available weapons and ongoing armed conflict. These dangers pose a significant threat to travelers venturing into the country.
North Korea
North Korea is a totalitarian state with limited freedom of movement and communication. Arbitrary detention, including of U.S. citizens, is a severe risk. The closure of the U.S. embassy in Pyongyang significantly limits American authorities’ ability to assist travelers within North Korea.
Niger
Currently, a Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” advisory is in place for Niger. This means risks exist, but responsible travelers can mitigate them through careful planning and awareness. The Sahel region, including parts of Niger, faces a threat of terrorist attacks. Stay informed about current situations and follow local safety recommendations.
Iran
The U.S. government does not advise its citizens to travel to Iran due to the severe risk of arbitrary arrest and detention. The closure of the U.S. embassy in Tehran significantly restricts the ability of American authorities to assist detained travelers. It is also noted that Iranian authorities may need to recognize dual citizenship, further complicating legal situations for Americans with Iranian heritage.
Iraq
Ongoing terrorist activity and attacks target both local and foreign individuals, posing a significant threat to travelers to Iraq. The closure of the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad significantly restricts the ability of American authorities to assist travelers in emergencies. In addition, movement restrictions and checkpoints are common, impacting travel plans and spontaneity.
Libya
Though the demise of Muammar Gaddafi’s dictatorship over a decade ago sparked hope for stability, Libya remains entangled in internal conflict between rival armed groups in the east and west. This ongoing struggle fuels anxieties of armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, kidnapping, and even terrorism, posing significant risks for travelers, particularly U.S. citizens who have previously been targeted for ransom in kidnappings.
Lebanon
There have been recent clashes between various armed groups and the Lebanese Armed Forces, adding to the instability. Additionally, occasional rocket exchanges between Hezbollah and Israel raise concerns about potential escalations.
Mali
Due to significant security concerns, the U.S. Department of State currently issues a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for the country. The main concerns are around civil unrest and terrorism, as well as kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes are common, targeting both locals and tourists, especially outside major cities.
Haiti
Fearing a surge in kidnappings and violent crime, including clashes between gangs and police, the U.S. Department of State evacuated all non-essential personnel and families from the Port-au-Prince embassy in July 2023. The travel advisory warns of ransom demands and physical harm experienced by U.S. citizens during kidnappings, painting a grim picture of safety in Haiti.
Myanmar
Exploring this Southeast Asian nation, where a 2021 military coup ignited ongoing armed conflict and civil unrest, presents a complex travel landscape. COVID-19 restrictions, limited healthcare availability, potential for wrongful detentions, and the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance warrant careful consideration before venturing into this fascinating but challenging region.
Gaza
The U.S. Department of State currently issues a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory for the Gaza Strip due to significant risks, including regular exchanges of fire between Hamas and Israeli forces, which pose a constant threat to safety. Crossing points between Gaza, Israel, and Egypt are subject to frequent closures and limitations, impacting entry and exit.
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso, a West African nation known for its vibrant culture, faces significant security challenges. While terrorist attacks are a possibility, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and schools, they often occur with little warning. Due to ongoing threats, the government has declared a state of emergency in the East and Sahel regions. Recent clashes near the Malian border tragically resulted in hundreds of casualties. Displaced populations seeking refuge from violence linked to extremist groups, unfortunately, exceed 2 million.
Belarus
Belarus is facilitating Russia’s war in Ukraine, including hosting military operations and allowing for missile launches. This proximity directly increases the risk of conflict spilling over into Belarus. The Belarusian government has a history of arbitrarily detaining foreigners, even for seemingly innocuous reasons, creating a significant risk of imprisonment.
Afghanistan
Traveling to Afghanistan is currently strongly discouraged by the U.S. and many other countries due to a multitude of severe risks, including ongoing armed conflict. The Taliban, after taking control in 2021, continues to face resistance from other armed groups, leading to frequent clashes and instability.
Central African Republic
The CAR has grappled with civil war and rebel activity for years, resulting in sporadic clashes and volatile security situations across various regions. Access to reliable medical care, especially outside major cities, can be scarce and inadequate, making emergencies challenging to manage.
Venezuela
Since 2014, the nation has grappled with a complex political crisis that has impacted human rights and access to healthcare. The withdrawal of U.S. diplomatic personnel in 2019 underscores the delicate situation. Travelers should be aware of potential risks like crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, wrongful detention, and limited healthcare resources before venturing into this fascinating yet challenging South American nation.
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